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Boating

Can I launch my own watercraft at any Forest Preserve fishing lakes?

Whalon Lake in Naperville and Rock Run Rookery Preserve in Joliet offer fishing lakes where the District allows the launch of fishing boats (trolling motors only). Boating is also allowed at Lake Chaminwood Preserve in Minooka, but only watercraft that can be carried on top of a vehicle is permitted. There is no boat trailer parking at the Lake Chaminwood Preserve. Canoes and kayaks may also be launched at all three preserves; no launch pass is required.

You may also launch your own canoe or kayak at Monee Reservoir if you have a daily or seasonal launch pass. Canoes, kayaks, rowboats and pedalboats may be rented from Monee Reservoir as well.

Boats may be launched between April 1 and October 31. For more information about the use of watercraft in District preserves, visit the Boating page or Canoeing/Kayaking page.

"Non-gasoline powered watercraft that are up to 18 feet long are permitted, including fishing boats, rowboats, canoes, and kayaks. Sailboats are not permitted. Only electric trolling motors can be used. Gas-powered motors must be raised and out of the water. Inflatable watercraft registered with IDNR is permitted. Swimming, wading and float tubes are prohibited. Persons must be entirely secured in watercraft."

Because "persons must be entirely secured in watercraft" and swimming is not allowed, paddleboards are prohibited.

Each campsite includes picnic tables and grills for cooking and is near bathroom facilities, drinking water and trails. Some campsites are near fishing opportunities as well. Only primitive camping is allowed, with no accommodations for recreational vehicles (RVs). Visit the Camping page for more information.

Deer Management

Why institute a deer management program?

The District recognizes white-tailed deer as an important part of Will County’s biodiversity. However, high density levels of white-tailed deer in many of our preserves are damaging the health and well-being of our woodlands, savannas and prairies. Overbrowsing by deer over the last decade has become quite noticeable and, if left unmanaged, will result in rapid and dramatic changes to these areas.

It is understandable that the decision to manage deer may cause some public concern. However, the Forest Preserve District has made this decision based on extensive research, consultation and discussion. If deer are left unmanaged, their large numbers will cause dramatic changes to the District’s ecosystems, resulting in irreversible damage and potential loss of species.

A maximum of three dogs per person are allowed in the dog park. Visit the Dog Park page for more information.

What information must I provide in order to buy a dog park permit?

In order to obtain a dog park permit, you much provide each dog's rabies vaccination tag number and the full date of when the dog is due for re-vaccination. You will also need to provide your driver's license number. Visit the Dog Park page for more information.

Drones

Can I fly a drone in the preserves?

The operation of drones — or traditional model aircraft — in the preserves by the general public is not allowed under the District's General Use Ordinance.

We offer in-school educational programs on Tuesdays through Fridays to schools in Will County. Visit the Education page for more information.

Do you have programs for scout groups?

Youth group programs are available at several of our visitor centers. Visit the Education page for more information.

Fishing

Is fishing allowed in the forest preserves?

Fishing is allowed in any forest preserve unless posted otherwise. Visit the Fishing page for more information.

Do I need a special permit to fish at Will County forest preserves?

There is no special permit required to fish in Will County Forest Preserves. However, in accordance with State law, anyone over the age of 16 who fishes a public Illinois waterway is required to have a fishing license, which may be obtained from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources or at the District's Monee Reservoir. Visit the Fishing page for more information.

What kind of fishing bait is available for purchase at Monee Reservoir?

Miscellaneous Information

Is alcohol allowed in the Will County forest preserves?

Alcohol is allowed in all forest preserves without any special permission unless there is signage posted prohibiting alcohol in a particular area. For example, alcohol is prohibited inside of the District's dog parks.

Picnicking

Do I need to make a reservation in order to use a picnic shelter or grove?

Groups of 25 or less may use picnic groves and shelters on a first-come, first-served basis without a picnic permit if the picnic area is not already reserved. However, purchasing a picnic permit is recommended due to the high demand for picnic groves and shelters. A picnic permit will reserve your space. Picnic permits are required for groups larger than 25 people. Visit the Picnicking page for more information.

Alcohol is allowed in all forest preserves without any special permission unless there is signage posted prohibiting alcohol in a particular area. For example, alcohol is prohibited inside of the District's dog parks.

Photography

Do I need a permit to take photos in the preserves?

Any for-profit photographer must obtain a permit before taking photos in a District preserve. The fee for a photography permit is $25 per hour. To obtain a permit, an application should be completed and sent to permits@fpdwc.org. We do not offer annual permits at this time.

Programs

How do I register for a program offered by the District?

To register for one of the District's programs, call the number listed in the program description in the Event Calendar.

Safety

How can I report a safety concern in a forest preserve?

Call 911 in an emergency. Non-emergency safety concerns should be directed to the Will County Sheriff's dispatch at 815.727.6191 to have a Forest Preserve District Officer dispatched. Non-emergency and past concerns can also be reported to the District's police department by calling 815.727.8700 or through our online form.

What are the District's rules about firearms with regard to the Concealed Carry Act?

In addition, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County offers a wildlife rehabilitation facility, Willowbrook Wildlife Center, that may be contacted for assistance.

Is hunting allowed in Will County forest preserves?

No hunting is permitted in Will County forest preserves.

Mission

The Forest Preserve District is dedicated to protecting, conserving, enhancing and promoting Will County's natural heritage for the educational, recreational and environmental benefit of present and future generations.

Motto

Bringing People and Nature Together

Vision

The people of Will County will view the Forest Preserve District as vital to enriching their quality of life.

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How to Give

Support the Forest Preserve District by making a donation to the Nature Foundation of Will County. Your donation will go toward enhancing the Forest Preserve's education, conservation and recreation programs.